Dilip Ghosh expresses desire to visit Digha's new Jagannath temple, clarifies no political motive

Dilip Ghosh, former state president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has expressed his intention to visit the newly constructed Jagannath Temple in Digha. The temple, located in the coastal city of Digha in West Bengal, has completed its construction and is set to be inaugurated soon. Ghosh mentioned during a 'Chai Par Charcha' event in Bardhaman that if the opportunity arises, he would certainly visit the temple for darshan, emphasizing his personal desire to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath.

The Digha Jagannath Temple has generated significant attention due to its grandeur and the upcoming inauguration, scheduled for the occasion of Akshay Tritiya. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is expected to lead the opening ceremony. After the inauguration, the temple will be open for general public darshan, a move that has excited devotees and tourists alike. The temple’s completion and its opening to the public come as part of the state government’s efforts to promote religious tourism in the region.

Ghosh’s statement, while expressing a desire for religious visit, has raised political attention. The BJP leader clarified that his wish to visit the temple is not politically motivated. He underlined that his desire to see the temple was purely driven by faith and devotion, and he has no political agenda in making the statement. Ghosh also noted that Lord Jagannath’s divine presence should be cherished by everyone, adding that when the Lord is so near, there is a natural inclination to visit him.

Meanwhile, the political atmosphere surrounding the inauguration has been charged. BJP leader and leader of the opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, has called for a boycott of the event, citing concerns over the involvement of political figures in religious ceremonies. Adhikari has planned a separate event to mark the temple’s opening, further highlighting the ongoing political tensions within the state regarding religious events and their political associations.

In addition to his comments on the Digha temple, Ghosh also addressed the subject of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. He remarked that using religious sites for political purposes is inappropriate. Ghosh suggested that despite the construction of the Ram Temple, the BJP saw a drop in votes, stressing that temples are meant for spiritual practices and should not be dragged into politics.